Computers for Beginners

Computers for Beginners 1: Use the Mouse

A class on how to use a mouse for absolute beginners with little or no computer experience.

In this first session you will:

• Observe and practice how to operate a mouse effectively
• Understand various mouse pointers and cursors
• Review basic keyboard functions
• Use the mouse for basic Windows functions

Upon completion of this class students will be able to use a computer mouse at a basic level and will be able to go online for additional practice.

Prerequisites: No computer experience required.

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

Computers for Beginners 2: Use the Keyboard

A class on basic keyboard functions for absolute beginners with little or no computer experience.

In this second session you will:

• Familiarize yourself through practice with the most essential keyboard functions (alphabet, number and symbol keys)
• Practice proper keyboarding posture

Upon completion of this class students will be able to use a keyboard at a beginner level and know how to go online for additional practice.

Prerequisites: Computer for Beginners 1 or basic mouse skills

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

Computers for Beginners 3: Use Windows

A class on essential basic Windows skills for absolute beginners with little computer experience.

In this third session you will:

• Become familiar with the Windows (10) operating system
• Practice using common Windows features: File Explorer, Desktop, Taskbar, Windows, Applications

Upon completion of this class students will have a basic understanding of how to create and organize files in the Windows environment.

Prerequisites: Computer for Beginners 1 & 2 or basic mouse and keyboarding skills

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

Computers for Beginners 4: Use the Internet

An introductory class on the Internet for absolute beginners with little computer experience.

In this fourth session you will:

• Understand how to read a web site address
• Practice using web addresses
• Search for information using a search engine
• Explore a web site in detail to understand its key components

Upon completion of this class students will be able to use the internet at a beginner level and complete simple searches.

Prerequisites: Computer for Beginners 1 & 2 or basic mouse and keyboarding skills

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

Computers for Beginners 5: Use Google Search and Maps

A class on using Google's filters, tools, and Maps for absolute beginners with little computer experience.

In this fifth session you will:

• Use Google search tools more effectively to find websites, images, and news sites
• Explore Google Maps to find addresses and get directions for transit and road travel.

Upon completion of this class students will be able to use more advanced search engine features and use Google Maps at a basic level.

Prerequisites: Computers for Beginners 1 & 2 or basic mouse, keyboarding and internet skills

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

Computers for Beginners 6: Use Gmail

Learn to use Gmail, Google’s free web-based email service.

In this sixth session you will:

• Practice basic email functions: send, read, reply, forward, delete email, and attach files
• Review how spam and junk mail work

Upon completion of this class students will have a basic understanding of how to use email.

Instructions on how to set up and manage your own free Gmail account are included in the handout.

Prerequisites: Basic keyboarding and mouse skills required.

Format: Hands-on with demonstrations

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